Invitations Wedding Ideas

This homemade project is so sweet and surprisingly easy to create!
You will need an iron to get your fabric just right.
You will also need blank envelopes, fabric (we like a variety of several patterns!), a glue stick is a must -- a cutting mat, an X-acto knife ... and do not forget your scissors!
Initially, you will need to make a pattern for your envelope.
For the Pattern:
1. Open your envelope and lay it down flat on your ironed fabric.
2. Trace the envelope and then cut out the fabric.
3. Next, trim the fabric so it's slightly more narrow and shorter than the envelope.
4. Slip the fabric inside the envelope to make sure it fits the width. You may have to trim some more until it looks about right. If the top of it is too long, this is OK, you will trim this later after you glue.
To Line the Envelopes:
1. After you've cut out your fabric liners (using the template or your own pattern), fit one inside an envelope to make sure it fits.
2.When it looks about right and is nice and flat with no wrinkles, lift up the top part that goes over the envelope flap. Cover this section of the envelope in glue.
3.Next, lift up the bottom portion and hold the envelope open. Cover the inside of the envelope with glue and press down the fabric.
4. Make sure the fabric is glued securely, especially along the edges of the flap.
5. Leave it to dry for about 15 minutes.
6. Take an X-acto knife and a cutting mat and trim around the edges. Make sure these are nice and clean.
7. Use 3 dabs of glue along the envelope flap to secure the envelope to mail.
Your guests will be surprised when they open the envelope and find the beautiful fabric liner! Add other special touches, like personalized stamps as well.
Voila! The total cost, including envelope, is about .70 cents per envelope.
Photos By Chelsea Fuss

You’ve spent so much time planning your wedding events, so it’s essential that your guests have enough notice so they can plan to attend! There’s a fine line to giving your guests enough advanced notice and sending your invitations too far ahead of time so that people forget to RSVP. Here are a few guidelines.

Set up a wedding website right away. As soon as you set a date, create a wedding website so that you’ll have a home base for all of your wedding and travel information. You can send out the link to your guests via email, or include it on your save-the-date.

Save-the-dates If you’re having a destination wedding where most of your guests will have to travel, we recommend sending your save-the-dates at least eight months in advance – even up to a year if possible. You’ll want to include all the pertinent travel and accommodations information so that your guests can book right away. If you’re having a hometown wedding with little travel involved, send your save-the-dates at least six months in advance.

Bridal Shower Invitations and Other Pre-Wedding Events Bridal shower invitations are usually mailed out three to four weeks in advance – same goes for engagement parties. Set the RSVP date for one to two weeks in advance of the big day.

Wedding Invitations Wedding invitations should be mailed out six to eight weeks before the wedding date. Ask your guests to return their RSVP cards by at least two weeks, preferably three, before the wedding date so that you and your vendors have enough time to create table assignments, escort cards, etc.

Rehearsal Dinner and Post-Wedding Brunch The rehearsal dinner invitations should be mailed out separately a few days – no more than a week - following the wedding invitations so guests can make travel plans accordingly. If you’re having a post-wedding brunch that everyone is invited to, feel free to include a card with your wedding invitations and on your wedding website, too.

Looking for more wedding stationery ideas? Follow our Stationery Editor for lots of great ideas!

Invitations are an important part of your wedding, and not just because they give guests crucial information. Whether you opt for punchy colors, personal touches or romantic details, this is your chance to set the tone for your upcoming nuptials. Below are 10 unique designs that caught our attention.

1. Ombre

Photo by Nbarrett Photography

This gradual change from light to dark pink is soft, romantic, and sure to capture the recipient's attention.

2. Rustic Romance

Photos by (from left to right): Jessica Lorren Organic Photography and Tikko Weddings

If you're set on rustic for your wedding style, why not match your invitations accordingly? A tan or brown background with white calligraphy sets the tone perfectly.

3. Letterpressed Modern Graphics

Photo by Presshaus LA

Put a modern twist on your invitations with letterpressed graphics. From state outlines to arrows and calenders, your invitation can be a bit more interactive and unique with these additions.

4. Bold and Bright

Photo by A Girl and A Camera Photography

Neon colors aren't just for raves, use them on your wedding stationery! With these whimsical fonts and bright colors, nobody can turn down an invite.

5. Shape Up

Photo by Onelove Photography

Nobody said you had to stick with a squares or rectangles. This couple opted for invites in the shape of a record player, a theme that was present throughout their reception.

6. Handkerchiefs

Photos by (from left to right): Katelyn James Photography and The Nichols

Paper invitations are great, but why not step out of the box and hop on board with the new handkerchief trend? They'll last longer and definitely put a unique twist on the traditional wedding stationery.

7. Watercolors

Photos by (from left to right): Taylor Lord Photography and Wedding Paper Divas

The perfect combination of artisitic and romantic, watercolors can take your invitations to the next level. Whether you have them custom-made or use a pre-existing design, they certaintly add a creative element.

8. Personal Touches

Photo by Amelia Lyon Photography

Make the invitations uniquely yours by adding images that represent your relationship. From favorite restaurants to places you've travelled, make your relationship look just as good on paper.

9. Nothing But Nautical

Photos by (from left to right): Jeremiah and Rachel Photography and Harwell Photography

If you're tying the knot seaside, get your guests in the mood with a fun nautical design. A compass, an anchor, or even an octopus are appropriate touches for nautical nuptials.

10. Fruity and Feminine

Photo by Ryan Ray Photography

Incorporate the fruity flavors of summer's classic drink for a fun and catchy invitation that's sure to persuade guests to attend your wedding.

Whether you adore your pets or have a special place in your heart for a specific type of animal, it can be super-cute to incorporate this into your wedding décor. Here are a few ideas we’ve seen in real weddings.

Centerpieces

Animal topiaries are projected to be one of the hot décor items for 2015, and it’s a cute and subtle way to express your love for animals, whether you focus on a specific species or mix it up.

Photo by James Moro Photography

Escort Cards

From figurines to paper cut outs, your escort cards can provide a fun nod to your animal of choice. Aside from the pig and bird options shown here, we’ve also seen escort cards dedicated to cats, elephants, horses, and more!

First, make sure you use a scoring board so folds and lines are straight and precise.
Origami patterns are really gorgeous and add interest to tables, invitations, programs and more. They are also inexpensive!
For place cards, we measured and cut the Origami paper into 2" by 4" strips and folded in half using the scoring board. We cut 1" strips and created a "ribbon" v at the end using an x-acto knife. Use a dab of glue on either side to secure.
We love the minimalist combination of the Japanese patters with sweet handwriting. Consider practicing your best (or quirkiest!) handwriting and then color copying your favorite draft.
Origami paper makes a beautiful envelope liner! Simply trim the sides to fit the envelope, slide into envelope and secure with a glue stick.
For save-the-dates, color copy handwritten invitations onto postcards. Trim the patterned paper to size (using a rotary cutter) and then using an adhesive glue (a glue stick works too) we secured origami paper to the back of the card. It's makes for a gorgeous pattern-play!
Here are a few tips for working with origami paper:
1. Pair the origami paper with a heavy white card stock for areas that need text.
2. Origami paper is very easy to work with and is a perfect weight (not too heavy, not too flimsy!) 3. Even if you don't consider yourself crafty, give it a try!
4. X-acto knives and rotary cutters used with a straight edge help to get those perfect lines!
5. Consider your color scheme and try to keep the papers to a one, two or three color story.
For programs, simply fold the paper in half (using the scoring board if you want them extra neat).
Color copy a handwritten program (this works great for menus too!) and then cut to size. Fold card stock in half. Tie together using waxed twine.
Have fun creating your colorful, patterned paper goods!

Recycle old postcards by using them as place cards -- or go out and find some amazing postcards that mean something special to you! We mixed and matched ours for a colorful and interesting table setting.

You will need:

- A vintage post card for each guest. Ask parents and grandparents if they own any. Otherwise local antique shops, Ebay and Etsy are good sources. You can still find unused cards but postcards with messages on the back make for great table conversation. Try to pick cards that have at least one color in common.

- Japanese masking tape. Available at Happy Tape.

- Scissors

- A nice pen

Directions:

Choose a focal color for your table (ours was red). Pick a masking tape in that color and then cut 8 inch pieces. On the end of each piece, cut a V so it looks like the end of a ribbon. Fold it over one side of the card. Write the name of a guest on each piece of tape once it's secured.

Instructions:
1. Table number templates 1-20 are available as .pdfs to download and print.
2. Print table numbers onto card stock and cut out along provided lines.
3. You can use the table numbers as is or add extra metallic details with gold craft paint and a fine brush. Use the paint to detail the floral border. Be sure to keep the brush relatively dry, especially if you've print your cards on an inkjet printer.

Determining the best wording for your wedding invitations or save the date magnets can be a stressful task. While the design and layout of your invitations reflect the vibe of the event and the personalities of the couple, the wording needs to both inform guests of wedding-day logistics and include hosting and family information. The latter can be tricky, so consult below for traditional wording examples in some common scenarios.

Photo by JaneCane Photography

Wording for Wedding Invitations: Bride's Parents Host

Traditionally, if the bride's parents are hosting the wedding, their names appear first and the groom's parents are not mentioned.

Mr. and Mrs. John Doe

request the honor of your presence

at the marriage of their daughter

Anne Marie

to

Timothy James Brown

Saturday, the fourteenth of August, 2025

If you choose to include the groom's parents when the bride's parents are hosting, list them below his name:

Mr. and Mrs. John Doe

request the honor of your presence

at the marriage of their daughter

Anne Marie

to

Timothy James

son of

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Brown...

Wording for Wedding Invitations: Both Sets of Parents Host

If both parents are hosting, the bride's parents are listed first, followed by the groom's parents on a second line. The children are then listed in the same order as above, only with the groom's surname omitted.

Mr. and Mrs. John Doe &

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Brown

request the honor of your presence

at the marriage of their children

Anne Marie and Timothy James...

Wording for Wedding Invitations: Bride and Groom Host

In the case of the bride and groom hosting their own wedding, exclude parents' names altogether and begin with the bride's name.

Ms. Anne Marie Doe and Mr. Timothy James Brown

request the pleasure of your company at their marriage...

Wording for Wedding Invitations: Divorced or Single Parent Hosts

In the case of a single parent hosting the wedding, word the invitation as you would if two parents were hosting, but with a single name.

Mr. John Doe

request the honor of your presence

at the marriage of his daughter

Anne Marie

to

Timothy James

son of

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Brown...

Wording for Wedding Invitations: Divorced Parent Hosts with New Spouse

If a divorced parent is hosting, but has a new spouse, include both names but specify with pronouns that the bride (in this example) is the daughter of the woman, not both of them. Generally, when a bride's parents are divorced, the parent who raised her sends the invitation. If the bride has a different surname than the divorced parent, you might choose to indicate this on the invite to negate confusion.

Ellen and Christopher Andrews

request the pleasure of your company

at the marriage of her daughter

Anne Marie Doe

to

Timothy James

son of

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Brown...

Wording for Wedding Invitations: Divorces Parents Host Together

Often, divorced parents will come together to jointly host their child's wedding. If this is the case, list the mother first.

Mrs. Ellen Andrews and Mr. John Doe

request the pleasure of your company

at the marriage of their daughter

Anne Marie

to

Timothy James

son of

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Brown...

If divorced parents are remarried, include each set of parents on their own line.

It's often wisest to consult with parents before sending out the invitations to ensure that all parties are happy with the wording.

This homemade project is so sweet and surprisingly easy to create!
You will need an iron to get your fabric just right.
You will also need blank envelopes, fabric (we like a variety of several patterns!), a glue stick is a must -- a cutting mat, an X-acto knife ... and do not forget your scissors!
Initially, you will need to make a pattern for your envelope.
For the Pattern:
1. Open your envelope and lay it down flat on your ironed fabric.
2. Trace the envelope and then cut out the fabric.
3. Next, trim the fabric so it's slightly more narrow and shorter than the envelope.
4. Slip the fabric inside the envelope to make sure it fits the width. You may have to trim some more until it looks about right. If the top of it is too long, this is OK, you will trim this later after you glue.
To Line the Envelopes:
1. After you've cut out your fabric liners (using the template or your own pattern), fit one inside an envelope to make sure it fits.
2.When it looks about right and is nice and flat with no wrinkles, lift up the top part that goes over the envelope flap. Cover this section of the envelope in glue.
3.Next, lift up the bottom portion and hold the envelope open. Cover the inside of the envelope with glue and press down the fabric.
4. Make sure the fabric is glued securely, especially along the edges of the flap.
5. Leave it to dry for about 15 minutes.
6. Take an X-acto knife and a cutting mat and trim around the edges. Make sure these are nice and clean.
7. Use 3 dabs of glue along the envelope flap to secure the envelope to mail.
Your guests will be surprised when they open the envelope and find the beautiful fabric liner! Add other special touches, like personalized stamps as well.
Voila! The total cost, including envelope, is about .70 cents per envelope.
Photos By Chelsea Fuss

You’ve spent so much time planning your wedding events, so it’s essential that your guests have enough notice so they can plan to attend! There’s a fine line to giving your guests enough advanced notice and sending your invitations too far ahead of time so that people forget to RSVP. Here are a few guidelines.

Set up a wedding website right away. As soon as you set a date, create a wedding website so that you’ll have a home base for all of your wedding and travel information. You can send out the link to your guests via email, or include it on your save-the-date.

Save-the-dates If you’re having a destination wedding where most of your guests will have to travel, we recommend sending your save-the-dates at least eight months in advance – even up to a year if possible. You’ll want to include all the pertinent travel and accommodations information so that your guests can book right away. If you’re having a hometown wedding with little travel involved, send your save-the-dates at least six months in advance.

Bridal Shower Invitations and Other Pre-Wedding Events Bridal shower invitations are usually mailed out three to four weeks in advance – same goes for engagement parties. Set the RSVP date for one to two weeks in advance of the big day.

Wedding Invitations Wedding invitations should be mailed out six to eight weeks before the wedding date. Ask your guests to return their RSVP cards by at least two weeks, preferably three, before the wedding date so that you and your vendors have enough time to create table assignments, escort cards, etc.

Rehearsal Dinner and Post-Wedding Brunch The rehearsal dinner invitations should be mailed out separately a few days – no more than a week - following the wedding invitations so guests can make travel plans accordingly. If you’re having a post-wedding brunch that everyone is invited to, feel free to include a card with your wedding invitations and on your wedding website, too.

Looking for more wedding stationery ideas? Follow our Stationery Editor for lots of great ideas!

Invitations are an important part of your wedding, and not just because they give guests crucial information. Whether you opt for punchy colors, personal touches or romantic details, this is your chance to set the tone for your upcoming nuptials. Below are 10 unique designs that caught our attention.

1. Ombre

Photo by Nbarrett Photography

This gradual change from light to dark pink is soft, romantic, and sure to capture the recipient's attention.

2. Rustic Romance

Photos by (from left to right): Jessica Lorren Organic Photography and Tikko Weddings

If you're set on rustic for your wedding style, why not match your invitations accordingly? A tan or brown background with white calligraphy sets the tone perfectly.

3. Letterpressed Modern Graphics

Photo by Presshaus LA

Put a modern twist on your invitations with letterpressed graphics. From state outlines to arrows and calenders, your invitation can be a bit more interactive and unique with these additions.

4. Bold and Bright

Photo by A Girl and A Camera Photography

Neon colors aren't just for raves, use them on your wedding stationery! With these whimsical fonts and bright colors, nobody can turn down an invite.

5. Shape Up

Photo by Onelove Photography

Nobody said you had to stick with a squares or rectangles. This couple opted for invites in the shape of a record player, a theme that was present throughout their reception.

6. Handkerchiefs

Photos by (from left to right): Katelyn James Photography and The Nichols

Paper invitations are great, but why not step out of the box and hop on board with the new handkerchief trend? They'll last longer and definitely put a unique twist on the traditional wedding stationery.

7. Watercolors

Photos by (from left to right): Taylor Lord Photography and Wedding Paper Divas

The perfect combination of artisitic and romantic, watercolors can take your invitations to the next level. Whether you have them custom-made or use a pre-existing design, they certaintly add a creative element.

8. Personal Touches

Photo by Amelia Lyon Photography

Make the invitations uniquely yours by adding images that represent your relationship. From favorite restaurants to places you've travelled, make your relationship look just as good on paper.

9. Nothing But Nautical

Photos by (from left to right): Jeremiah and Rachel Photography and Harwell Photography

If you're tying the knot seaside, get your guests in the mood with a fun nautical design. A compass, an anchor, or even an octopus are appropriate touches for nautical nuptials.

10. Fruity and Feminine

Photo by Ryan Ray Photography

Incorporate the fruity flavors of summer's classic drink for a fun and catchy invitation that's sure to persuade guests to attend your wedding.

Whether you adore your pets or have a special place in your heart for a specific type of animal, it can be super-cute to incorporate this into your wedding décor. Here are a few ideas we’ve seen in real weddings.

Centerpieces

Animal topiaries are projected to be one of the hot décor items for 2015, and it’s a cute and subtle way to express your love for animals, whether you focus on a specific species or mix it up.

Photo by James Moro Photography

Escort Cards

From figurines to paper cut outs, your escort cards can provide a fun nod to your animal of choice. Aside from the pig and bird options shown here, we’ve also seen escort cards dedicated to cats, elephants, horses, and more!

First, make sure you use a scoring board so folds and lines are straight and precise.
Origami patterns are really gorgeous and add interest to tables, invitations, programs and more. They are also inexpensive!
For place cards, we measured and cut the Origami paper into 2" by 4" strips and folded in half using the scoring board. We cut 1" strips and created a "ribbon" v at the end using an x-acto knife. Use a dab of glue on either side to secure.
We love the minimalist combination of the Japanese patters with sweet handwriting. Consider practicing your best (or quirkiest!) handwriting and then color copying your favorite draft.
Origami paper makes a beautiful envelope liner! Simply trim the sides to fit the envelope, slide into envelope and secure with a glue stick.
For save-the-dates, color copy handwritten invitations onto postcards. Trim the patterned paper to size (using a rotary cutter) and then using an adhesive glue (a glue stick works too) we secured origami paper to the back of the card. It's makes for a gorgeous pattern-play!
Here are a few tips for working with origami paper:
1. Pair the origami paper with a heavy white card stock for areas that need text.
2. Origami paper is very easy to work with and is a perfect weight (not too heavy, not too flimsy!) 3. Even if you don't consider yourself crafty, give it a try!
4. X-acto knives and rotary cutters used with a straight edge help to get those perfect lines!
5. Consider your color scheme and try to keep the papers to a one, two or three color story.
For programs, simply fold the paper in half (using the scoring board if you want them extra neat).
Color copy a handwritten program (this works great for menus too!) and then cut to size. Fold card stock in half. Tie together using waxed twine.
Have fun creating your colorful, patterned paper goods!

Recycle old postcards by using them as place cards -- or go out and find some amazing postcards that mean something special to you! We mixed and matched ours for a colorful and interesting table setting.

You will need:

- A vintage post card for each guest. Ask parents and grandparents if they own any. Otherwise local antique shops, Ebay and Etsy are good sources. You can still find unused cards but postcards with messages on the back make for great table conversation. Try to pick cards that have at least one color in common.

- Japanese masking tape. Available at Happy Tape.

- Scissors

- A nice pen

Directions:

Choose a focal color for your table (ours was red). Pick a masking tape in that color and then cut 8 inch pieces. On the end of each piece, cut a V so it looks like the end of a ribbon. Fold it over one side of the card. Write the name of a guest on each piece of tape once it's secured.

Instructions:
1. Table number templates 1-20 are available as .pdfs to download and print.
2. Print table numbers onto card stock and cut out along provided lines.
3. You can use the table numbers as is or add extra metallic details with gold craft paint and a fine brush. Use the paint to detail the floral border. Be sure to keep the brush relatively dry, especially if you've print your cards on an inkjet printer.

Determining the best wording for your wedding invitations or save the date magnets can be a stressful task. While the design and layout of your invitations reflect the vibe of the event and the personalities of the couple, the wording needs to both inform guests of wedding-day logistics and include hosting and family information. The latter can be tricky, so consult below for traditional wording examples in some common scenarios.

Photo by JaneCane Photography

Wording for Wedding Invitations: Bride's Parents Host

Traditionally, if the bride's parents are hosting the wedding, their names appear first and the groom's parents are not mentioned.

Mr. and Mrs. John Doe

request the honor of your presence

at the marriage of their daughter

Anne Marie

to

Timothy James Brown

Saturday, the fourteenth of August, 2025

If you choose to include the groom's parents when the bride's parents are hosting, list them below his name:

Mr. and Mrs. John Doe

request the honor of your presence

at the marriage of their daughter

Anne Marie

to

Timothy James

son of

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Brown...

Wording for Wedding Invitations: Both Sets of Parents Host

If both parents are hosting, the bride's parents are listed first, followed by the groom's parents on a second line. The children are then listed in the same order as above, only with the groom's surname omitted.

Mr. and Mrs. John Doe &

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Brown

request the honor of your presence

at the marriage of their children

Anne Marie and Timothy James...

Wording for Wedding Invitations: Bride and Groom Host

In the case of the bride and groom hosting their own wedding, exclude parents' names altogether and begin with the bride's name.

Ms. Anne Marie Doe and Mr. Timothy James Brown

request the pleasure of your company at their marriage...

Wording for Wedding Invitations: Divorced or Single Parent Hosts

In the case of a single parent hosting the wedding, word the invitation as you would if two parents were hosting, but with a single name.

Mr. John Doe

request the honor of your presence

at the marriage of his daughter

Anne Marie

to

Timothy James

son of

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Brown...

Wording for Wedding Invitations: Divorced Parent Hosts with New Spouse

If a divorced parent is hosting, but has a new spouse, include both names but specify with pronouns that the bride (in this example) is the daughter of the woman, not both of them. Generally, when a bride's parents are divorced, the parent who raised her sends the invitation. If the bride has a different surname than the divorced parent, you might choose to indicate this on the invite to negate confusion.

Ellen and Christopher Andrews

request the pleasure of your company

at the marriage of her daughter

Anne Marie Doe

to

Timothy James

son of

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Brown...

Wording for Wedding Invitations: Divorces Parents Host Together

Often, divorced parents will come together to jointly host their child's wedding. If this is the case, list the mother first.

Mrs. Ellen Andrews and Mr. John Doe

request the pleasure of your company

at the marriage of their daughter

Anne Marie

to

Timothy James

son of

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Brown...

If divorced parents are remarried, include each set of parents on their own line.

It's often wisest to consult with parents before sending out the invitations to ensure that all parties are happy with the wording.

What’s better than getting a card in the mail? Getting a wedding invitation in the mail! You want your wedding guests to delight
...

in receiving your wedding invitations, so Project Wedding has provided many, many wedding invitation ideas for you to look at.

From the color combos to the level of formality and etiquette to the overall vibe of the invite, your wedding invitations are your guests' first glimpse into your wedding. So of course you want to have the very best invitations, right? Whether you want to make your own DIY wedding invitations (take our DIY Wedding Challenge) or you just need some ideas for bold color combinations or wedding invitation etiquette tips, we can help. We have creative wedding ideas aplenty!

We also have save-the-dates, escort cards, programs and menu cards in our ginormous collection of wedding invitation photos. After that, it's just a matter of addressing your envelopes and sending out your invitations on time. In general, save-the-dates should go out about six months prior to the wedding (longer if it’s a destination wedding), and wedding invitations should be sent 6-8 weeks prior to the wedding. We even have tips on easy RSVP tracking (for those messy, unreadable RSVPs) and seating chart tips. Want to learn calligraphy? We have tips for that too!

Whether you need help with your invitations, want to find a wedding dress, need ideas for wedding songs or wedding favors, Project Wedding is here to assist you with whatever you need. It may seem overwhelming, but these are all just suggestions. It’s your wedding – make sure you do things exactly the way you want them. No matter what you choose, Project Wedding will be there. Thanks for visiting Project Wedding and good luck with your invitations!